Poway and Rancho Bernardo, CA
Sleeping is a vitally important part of maintaining your body’s functions, especially when it comes to making it through a busy day. Without the minimum amount of sleep, every facet of your life, from health to performance, can suffer.
For some people, their busy lives keep them from sleeping but for others, sleep disorders may be at the root of the problem. Tossing and turning all night isn’t normal which is why it’s important to see a doctor at the first sign of concern. Sleep apnea is an incredibly common form of sleep disorder that occurs when the airway is blocked during the night. This process deprives the brain of adequate oxygen and, in order to begin breathing normally, the brain wakes up, disturbing sleep. For those who suffer from sleep apnea, this process can occur hundreds of time in a night. Although you may not be aware of the interruptions to your slumber, sleep apnea can cause extreme sleep deprivation in a way that is harmful to your health.
Effects of Sleep Loss
Sleep loss can affect numerous parts of your life, both long-term and short-term, including:
Declining mental health
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability
Memory loss and poor judgment
Depression
Chronic fatigue
Loss of libido
Can Sleep Loss Hurt You?
In addition to social and physiological changes, sleep apnea can contribute to serious health risks, including:
- Heart attack
- Obesity
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Stroke
Can Sleep Loss Hurt Your Loved Ones?
Sleep apnea has numerous negative side effects, including those on your mood, behavior, and health. It can make you sad, irritable, or unable to focus when spending time with those around you, creating problems in your personal relationships.
If you have a partner, your sleep apnea may be affecting his or her life as well. Snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, a side effect that could be causing your partner to lose sleep as well.
Sleep Apnea Treatment
When your sleep apnea becomes too much to handle on your own, it’s time to seek treatment. Sleep apnea dentists like Dr. Nicol Cook at Smiles By Dr. Cook are able to provide you with custom treatment options designed to help you get a better night’s sleep.
How Are You Sleeping?
Offering benefits for your health and your interactions with others, sleep apnea treatments may be the solution to living a better, happier life. Call (858) 673-0141 today to see what Dr. Cook can do for you and your sleep apnea issues!